Urbex, a leading national residential developer, has partnered with HPA Inc (Helping People Achieve), a local not-for-profit Disability Enterprise in Darwin and Palmerston, and its manufacturing division, Kokoda Industries, to produce and install bespoke bench seats at Urbex’s The Heights Durack development. This collaboration underscores Urbex’s commitment to fostering social inclusion and supporting the local community.
Since 1963, HPA has been a cornerstone of disability support services in the Darwin region, offering community access, affordable accommodation, and supported employment opportunities for people living with disabilities. Through partnerships like this, HPA continues to empower individuals by fostering skills development, confidence, and independence.
The new park benches crafted by HPA employees have now been installed at The Heights Durack. The collaboration was further supported by CLOUSTON Associates, a division of Beveridge Williams, with Senior Landscape Architect Samuel Hare playing a key role in designing and integrating the bespoke seating into the public open space. Their expertise helped ensure the benches not only met the community’s needs but also complemented the broader landscape vision of the development.
Urbex plans to continue partnering with HPA throughout the entire project, ensuring that locally made and manufactured products contribute to both commercial success and meaningful social outcomes.
“At Urbex, we are committed to working closely with local communities to create a lasting legacy through sustainable, integrated infrastructure,” Kassi Picken, Urbex Project Director NT, said.
“We’re incredibly proud of initiatives like this one, which not only enhance our community spaces but also provide meaningful work for people living with disability. It’s about making a difference, one partnership at a time.”
HPA Acting CEO Stephanie Ransome highlighted the profound impact of such collaborations, reinforcing the organisation’s mission to support local Territorians with disabilities.
“Every day, we strive to inspire and empower individuals through supported employment, social programs, and accommodation,” Stephanie said.
“This partnership with Urbex is a shining example of how businesses can help break down barriers, providing meaningful work and fostering independence.”
For HPA staff like Dave McQuade, Kokoda’s Workshop Manager, contributing to the project has been a deeply rewarding experience.
“I’m excited to walk through the community and proudly say, ‘I built those benches,” McQuade said.
“Having these opportunities makes a real difference in my life, giving me a sense of achievement and independence.”
By choosing to collaborate with HPA, Urbex is ensuring that every aspect of The Heights Durack development is not just built for the community but built by the community.
With titled land now available at The Heights Durack, locals, families and investors are encouraged to visit the website or get in touch to arrange a site visit and walk through. A new land sales centre will also be opening soon at Gateway Shopping Centre, offering a convenient place to explore plans, ask questions, and learn more about what is to come – stay tuned for updates.